Katie Hayden, an Owensboro Catholic High School graduate and McConnell Scholar, was recently honored with the University of Louisville’s prestigious Cardinal Award.
The award, established in 1969, is given to only two graduating seniors for their academic achievements and service to the University and the broader Louisville community. Recipients are selected after interviewing with a panel of UofL staff members.
“I am honored to be a part of the longstanding tradition of the Cardinal Award here at UofL,” Hayden said. “I am so thankful to have the opportunity and ability to serve UofL through leadership roles in various organizations that allow me to give back to the Cardinal Community that has given me so much.”
Hayden is a senior McConnell Scholar studying neuroscience and political science. She serves as student body president of the Student Government Association and programming director of the raiseRED Dance Marathon. After graduation, Hayden plans to attend the University of Louisville School of Dentistry.
“We are incredibly proud of Katie and her dedication to leadership and service throughout her undergraduate career,” said McConnell Center Director Dr. Gary Gregg. “She joins the many McConnell Scholars before her who have acted as servant leaders both on and off campus.”
The McConnell Scholars Program is a prestigious leadership and scholarship program at the University of Louisville open to graduating Kentucky high school seniors with a strong demonstrated record of leadership, scholarship, and service. Approximately 10 students are added each year, with a maximum of 40 McConnell Scholars in the program at one time.
At OCHS, Hayden was a three-time class officer and member of the National Honors Society, and she was named to the Kentucky High School Athletic Association Cross Country All-State Team. She was a member of the Wendell H. Ford Statesmanship Academy and Impact 100 Next Generation. Hayen, the daughter of Richard and Natalie Hayden, was also a 2019 Kentucky Governor’s Scholar.
Kara Beth Poe and Madelin Shelton contributed to this story.
